macOS · Mac · Everyday fixes

Can't log in to your Mac: password and FileVault recovery

A Mac that rejects your password is usually recoverable without erasing anything, but which route works depends on whether the account is linked to an Apple ID and whether FileVault is on.

DifficultyMedium
Time20 min
RiskLow
ReversibleYes
PlatformmacOS
UpdatedAug 24, 2026

Written and tested by emdottech

What that means

Low risk. This fix only checks things, or changes settings you can switch back in the same place. This change is reversible — you can return to the previous state without professional help or data loss.

The Mac recovery password-reset routes — Apple ID linked for an online reset, FileVault on requiring the key, and no bypass when there's no key

What usually goes wrong

Without both the password and the FileVault recovery key the data is unrecoverable, and Apple cannot unlock it for you.
A reset password does not unlock your login Keychain, so expect to be asked to update it or start a new one at first sign-in.

Steps

01
- Check Caps Lock and the keyboard layout indicator before anything else. Three failed attempts also shows your password hint if you set one, which is often enough on its own.
02
- If the account is linked to an Apple ID, keep failing until macOS offers to reset it that way. Sign in with the Apple ID and set a new password.
03
- No Apple ID prompt? On an Intel Mac, restart holding CommandR to reach Recovery, then open Utilities, Terminal, and type resetpassword to launch the reset assistant.
04
- On Apple silicon, hold the power button instead until 'Loading startup options' appears, then choose Options and Continue to reach the same Recovery tools.
05
- If FileVault is on, Recovery asks for your recovery key before it resets anything. That 24-character key was shown when you switched FileVault on — check your password manager or printed copy.

How to verify the fix

You reach the desktop, and a restart followed by a fresh sign-in works on the first attempt.

If this didn't fix it

If Recovery asks for a recovery key you do not have, stop — no tool or service can bypass FileVault. If the Mac is managed by a school or employer, only the administrator can reset it.

Next stop: the related fixes below, or start a guided diagnosis.

Still stuck? Diagnose my problem Browse all Mac fixes

Can't log in to your Mac: password and FileVault recovery

What usually goes wrong

Steps

✓How to verify the fix

!If this didn't fix it

Related fixes

How to verify the fix

If this didn't fix it